The Department of Home Economics
offers a combined Master of Science in Nutritional Science and AP4
field experience program. This field experience fulfills the registration
eligibility requirements of the American Dietetic Association (ADA)
to become a registered dietitian. Upon successful completion of
AP4, the student will be eligible to write the Registration Examination
for Dietitians.

The AP4 requires 1280 hours, 1187 hours of practice divided into
three components: clinical dietetics, foodservice systems management
and community nutrition. The Seminar in Dietetic Practice constitutes
the remaining 93 hours of the AP4. The field experience is conducted
off campus at a variety of excellent facilities. Opportunities exist
in acute and long-term health care sites, as well as in teaching,
research, community and governmental agencies. Students will therefore
receive training in general dietetics with experiences that expose
them to various specialty areas.

Admission Requirements:
1) Completion of Plan IV/V academic requirements as stipulated by
ADA;
2) Earned baccalaureate degree;
3) GPA 3.0/4.0 scale (required on the last 60 units of courses completed);
4) Related volunteer or work experience in the United States;
5) Graduate standing in the CSULB Master of Science, Nutritional
Science program;
6) Completion of the four core graduate courses, H EC 531, 533,
534, 562 or equivalent with a grade of "A" or "B";
7) Application materials to AP4 Director including three letters
of recommendation and personal interview with Program Director.

Program Requirements:
Upon satisfactory completion of the Professional Practicum in Dietetics,
H EC 591A and Seminar in Dietetic Practice, H EC 591B, the student
will be able to meet the performance requirements for entry-level
dietitians as specified by the ADA.

The 12 units of core graduate courses and a total of 2 units of
H EC 591B are applicable toward the M.S. degree in Nutritional Science.
Completion of the M.S. degree is not a requirement for completion
of the AP4. Students should contact the AP4 Director for complete
details on this program.